One in three UK drivers admits to using their handset when behind the wheel, according to figures published today.

Research by the insurance company LV= also found that one in five motorists thinks that using a mobile phone whilst driving is acceptable, and that some check social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter whilst on the road.

It comes almost 10 years since legislation banning the use of mobile devices while driving was introduced. In that time, around one million people have been caught and punished.

John O'Roarke, managing director of LV=, said: "It's worrying to see that many motorists are continuing to use their devices when on the road.

"While it can seem tempting for people to use their phones at the wheel, they should always pull over to make a call, send a text or browse the internet.

"By not doing so, they risk points, a fine or, even worse, causing an accident."

Cyclist Jordan Wickington was killed in Southampton in 2007 by a driver who was texting while behind the wheel. The motorist went to jail for four years for dangerous driving.

"Nothing is being done," Jordan's half-brother Dan Hickham said.

"I've spoken about this over the past few years. I've done various media interviews where I'm asked my opinion on the fact that many people are still using their mobile phones.

"The statistics don't seem to have moved in that period of time, which leads me to believe there is not a strong enough deterrent for people."

Enforcing the law is difficult because it requires a physical police presence to do so.

Electronic speed cameras are unable to pick up offenders, although technology has improved and some laser cameras can now spot drivers from half a mile away.